A POWERFUL symbol of peace and reconciliation unfolded in Barangay Digongan as 72 tribal couples, many former members of the New People’s Army (NPA), exchanged vows in a moving mass wedding ceremony on Feb. 28, 2025.
The “Kasalan ng Bayan,” officiated by Datu Cosme Lambayon, the Municipal Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Kitaotao, Bukidnon, marked a significant step in the couples’ journey toward reintegration into mainstream society.
Each couple received a gift of rice, symbolizing sustenance and prosperity, as they embarked on their new lives together.
The event resonated deeply as it represented not just the union of individuals, but a collective commitment to peace after years of conflict.
The couple’s decision to lay down arms and embrace a peaceful future was celebrated by community leaders and government officials alike.
“This mass wedding is not just about the union of two individuals but also a symbol of hope, transformation, and a commitment to a brighter future for these couples and their families,” said Lieutenant Colonel Antonio G. Bulao, commander of the 89th Infantry (Makatao) Battalion.
Municipal Kitaotao Vice Mayor Mary Ann G. Angit also attended the ceremony, underscoring the local government’s support for initiatives promoting peace, unity, and community development.
The event highlighted the ongoing collaboration between local government, security forces, and indigenous communities to foster stability and sustainable development in the region.
The mass wedding served as a testament to the power of reconciliation and the promise of a peaceful future for the people of Kitaotao.
Photos courtesy of 89IB
